Uttarakhand Opens First GI Products Gallery

Uttarakhand opened its first Geographical Indications (GI) Products Gallery at the Uttarakhand Forest Training Academy in Haldwani on 13 July 2026. The gallery displays more than 30 GI-tagged products from the state, including agricultural produce, handicrafts, and cultural items.

Geographical Indication in India

A Geographical Indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics linked to that place. In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, and the registration is administered by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks.

Products Displayed in the Gallery

The gallery includes items such as Bedu, Ramnagar litchi, Ramgarh peach, Tejpat, Munsiyari white rajma, Kumaon chyura oil, and Almora Lakhori chilli. It also features Aipan art, Chamoli wooden Ramman masks, and Uttarakhand Tamta copperware, which represent the state’s artisanal traditions.

GI Tags in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has more than 30 GI-tagged products. The state secured 18 GI tags in a single day in December 2023, which placed it among the states with a large number of GI registrations in one round.

Important Facts for Exams

• GI tags are used for products linked to a specific region and its traditional qualities.
• India’s GI law is the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
• Uttarakhand’s GI products include both agricultural goods and handicrafts.
• Perishable GI items such as litchi and peach need special preservation for display.

Objectives of the Gallery

The gallery is intended to familiarise visitors, students, researchers, and trainees with GI-tagged products. It also connects farmers, artisans, and craftspeople with wider markets and supports traditional knowledge and rural livelihoods.